What should you know about first line treatment for bullous impetigo?

Bullous impetigo is a contagious bacterial infection that forms fragile, fluid-filled blisters. When they break, the skin can become moist, sore or crusted. A clinician may recommend medicine applied to limited affected areas, while more widespread disease may need an antibiotic taken by mouth. The choice depends on the examination, age, allergies, other illnesses and whether infection is spreading. Atopic dermatitis can leave a damaged skin barrier that makes infection easier to develop, but not every blister or crust is impetigo.

Arrange medical assessment and avoid scratching, rubbing or bursting blisters. Wash hands after touching the area, keep lesions gently covered with clean dressings and do not share towels, clothing or bedding. Follow the prescribed course and keep using topical treatment only as directed. Children should stay away from close-contact activities until a clinician says returning is reasonable. Wash clothing and linens regularly, and ask about household contacts if several people develop sores.

Seek prompt care if blisters spread quickly, the child seems unusually sleepy or unwell, skin becomes very painful, or fever develops. Urgent review is also needed for eye involvement, dehydration, facial swelling or signs of infection extending beyond the original patches. A newborn or person with reduced immunity should be assessed without delay.

Ask whether the blisters need a swab, whether topical or oral treatment is appropriate, how to cover the skin, when contagion is reduced and what changes should trigger review.